1. Make sure you check all electrical appliances you plan to take for compatibility before your trip. The line voltage is 220 V. All the hotels are equipped with standard European style sockets.
2. The best way to make phone calls to other countries in from the special phone booths which are located close to all major shopping centers and government agencies. As a rule, all phone booths are equipped with telephone books.
3. Telephone call rates may change during a day. As a rule, the highest rates are during the period from 8:00 to 12:00. The calls from 18:00 to 8:00 will be the cheapest ones.
4. The tourists, who hope to save money on purchases, may be advised to visit «Kaufhol» supermarkets. Despite the fact that the prices in them are among the lowest in the city, all the products offered are of the excellent quality. Hertie supermarkets are considered the most expensive ones.
6. You should not forget to leave tips in the city’s restaurants and cafes. As a rule, the tips estimate around 10% of the total bill. It is very likely that guests of cafes will get a free soft drink or a cup of coffee.
7. The majority of government agencies and shops open at 9 am and work until 6 pm. Thursday is considered a long day, on which large supermarkets and shopping centers may work until 8 pm.
8. You can pay with credit cards in most hotels and restaurants, so taking a large sum of cash is not necessary.
9. Banks or specialized exchange offices are the best place to exchange currency. In addition to an exchange rate, make sure you pay attention on the size of the commission charged. The tourists who use the local ATMs should also ask about the amount of commission.
10. The city is distinguished by a well-developed public transport system. In order to make traveling even easier, you can get a brochure with a map of the city and description of all transport routes. 
